I've got to attend a conferance in Boston from July 29 to Aug 2. I haven't been to the Eastern USA and I just wanted to get some advice if there are any landscape options in that vicinity that would make it worthwhile extending my trip.
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As a native of the area I think I can give you some good suggestions. First, I am keeping my suggestions to excursions that can be accomplished in an afternoon or morning. They are relatively close to Boston. Boston, itself has great charm with respect to city scapes. In that regard, you can try some night photography on the Cambridge side of the Charles River or in the complex near the Christian Science Church on Huntington Avenue.
Now the excursions:
Old Town Marblehead, a little known gem about 15 miles from Boston. Here is a walking tour: Walk along Front Street beginning at Crocker Park,and continue to the end where there is an old fort (Sewall) guarding the entrance to Marblehead Harbor. Retrace your steps and walk up Fort Beach Lane via Doaks Lane and turn right onto Orne Street. Take a short detour to the view the beach off Gas House Lane and then continue on Orne St. Turning right, pass the very old (pre-revolutionary) cemetary, and down a short hill. Make a sharp right and walk out to take in a great view of the rugged shore line, lobster boats, etc. Turn back and continue on Beacon Street. Take note of Picturesque Gingerbread Lane. As you reach the T-intersection with Norman Street, you are in primo territory. This is the North Shore Coastline at its best. When finished here start back along Norman St. Norman Street soon turns to the left to join Pond St. On your left is Redd's Pond and usually some boats under repair. Follow the sidewalk going back along Redd's Pond toward the cemetery. This is the time to walk through the cemetery. Plot your own course and wander through history. Some of the gravestone inscriptions are remarkable. With a little luck you will emerge on Orne Street. Follow Orne street back down the little hill toward Gas House Lane. Follow along to Washington Street and then into the center of old town where you will meet the tourists who think they are seeing Marblehead. Don't tell anyone about this .
Another good one is the Town of Rockport, probably about 30 miles north of Boston.
The downtown area is very touristy but interesting nonetheless. There you will find Motiff Number 1, the red fishing building in the little harbor. After you have wandered around the town. Find Rte 127, nearby, and drive north. This should be sign posted Granite Street. Just before Granite Street (127) makes a fairly sharp left, you will find Halibut Point. If memory serves, you find a parking area just of Gott Street. You can then walk down to a great view of the granite shore line. Don't forget your camera.
I hope this helps.
